Senate approves bill to legalize fireworks in Maine

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AUGUSTA, Maine — A bill to legalize fireworks sales and use in Maine has won final legislative passage and was sent to the governor.

A spokeswoman for Gov. Paul LePage said he’s expected to sign the bill, which won final Senate approval without debate Wednesday by a 20-12 vote.

Rep. Douglas Damon’s bill would allow “consumer” fireworks, which include some firecrackers and devices that explode in the air. Approved fireworks include those that conform to United States Consumer Product Safety Commission standards.

Massachusetts also is considering a bill to legalize fireworks. New York, New Jersey and Delaware are the only other states that ban all forms of fireworks.

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The Maine bill imposes a $5,000 licensing fee for sellers, which drops to $1,500 for annual renewal. The law would take effect Jan. 1, 2012.